Software Architect's Handbook

Self-tests

Software systems can incorporate self-tests, allowing their components the ability to detect faults. Such a test is sometimes referred to as a built-in self-test (BIST) or a built-in test (BIT). If this technique is used, software components or combinations of components are developed with the logic that gives them the ability to test themselves for correct operation.

Self-tests can be initiated by the component they are testing or by a separate component acting as a system monitor. If a test fails, the fault is reported.